Youth & Young Adults Contests & Awards
Sign A Song Contest
Deadline: November 1
PURPOSE:
The Sign-a-Song Contest is designed to give youth a fun and creative way to express themselves through music and performance. This contest encourages participants to develop confidence, communication skills, and stage presence while interpreting a song in a way that reflects their personality and style. Beyond performance, the contest fosters teamwork, creativity, and self-expression, allowing youth to explore the arts in a supportive environment. By participating, youth gain valuable experience in public presentation and performance, while celebrating music as a tool for connection, inspiration, and leadership within the Grange community.
GUIDELINES:
Each submission must be from a Grange member in good standing and meeting the age requirements listed below. Contestants may submit both an in-person AND a video entry.
THEME:
This year's Sign-A-Song Theme is ‘America’s 250th’. Each participant is encouraged to select a song that showcases their patriotism and honors the 250th anniversary of the United States.
For complete details on this contest, please view the 2026 Youth & Young Adult Program Guide.
Public Speaking Contest
Deadline: November 1
PURPOSE:
The public speaking contest is designed to help youth find their voice, build confidence, and share their ideas clearly and with purpose. Through this experience, participants strengthen communication skills that will serve them in leadership roles, school, and everyday life.
GUIDELINES:
Each submission must be from a Grange member in good standing and meeting the age requirements listed below. Contestants may submit both an in-person AND a video entry.
For complete details on this contest, please view the 2026 Youth & Young Adult Program Guide.
Seeding the Future Challenge
Deadline: September 1
PURPOSE:
The Seeding the Future Challenge invites youth to play an active role in strengthening the Grange by personally inviting others to become involved. This program emphasizes the power of relationships—sharing your own Grange story, building genuine connections, and welcoming new members with warmth and encouragement. Youth are challenged to lead by example, helping others discover the fellowship, service, and leadership opportunities the Grange offers. Every invitation, conversation, and act of hospitality helps ensure the Grange continues to grow, thrive, and remain strong for generations to come.
For complete details on this contest, please view the 2026 Youth & Young Adult Program Guide.
Wib & June Justi Community Service Award
Deadline: September 1
PURPOSE:
To honor a Youth or Young Adult who has gone above and beyond to serve his or her community.
DESCRIPTION:
Community Service has long been a pillar of the Grange, providing members with meaningful opportunities to engage with and support the communities in which they live. Wib Justi served as the very first National Grange Director of Youth Activities, alongside his wife June, dedicating 18 years to fostering leadership and service among young members. Known for their unwavering positivity and signature response of “I’d be delighted! , the Justis exemplified joyful service, mentorship, and commitment to others.
This award will be presented to a youth or young adult who reflects that same spirit—serving others with enthusiasm, dedication, and a heart for strengthening their community.
For complete details on this contest, please view the 2026 Youth & Young Adult Program Guide.
Junior Mentor Award
Deadline: September 1
PURPOSE:
To honor a Youth or Young Adult who makes an impact by serving and mentoring Junior Grange members.
DESCRIPTION:
Grange Youth and Young Adults play a vital role in shaping our organization's future by uplifting, encouraging, and engaging with our Junior Grange members. Their involvement helps build confidence, foster a sense of belonging, and create meaningful experiences that last for years to come.
This award recognizes individuals who demonstrate exceptional leadership, mentorship, and dedication in guiding Junior Grangers — those who step forward with patience, enthusiasm, and a heart for service. Through their example, they inspire the next generation to grow, lead, and carry on the rich legacy of the Grange.
For complete details on this contest, please view the 2026 Youth & Young Adult Program Guide.
250th Creative Expression Contest
Deadline: September 1
PURPOSE:
The America 250 Creative Expressions Contest invites youth to celebrate the 250th anniversary of the United States through artistic and creative expression. This contest encourages youth to share what America means to them by using creativity, storytelling, and imagination. There is no “right” way to participate—only an opportunity to express ideas, values, and hopes for the nation’s future.
WHO CAN PARTICIPATE: This contest is open to any youth-aged person (age 14-25), and they do not need to be a Grange member.
Choose from one of the following categories. Only one entry per person per category.
- Drawing, painting, or mixed media
- Digital art or graphic design
- Photography or collage
For complete details on this contest, please view the 2026 Youth & Young Adult Program Guide.
Distinguished Grange Youth Member
Deadline: September 1
DESCRIPTION:
Grange Youth (individuals) may qualify for this award by completing enough requirements to earn 100 points.
Requirements must be met during the qualifying period of July 1, 2025, through June 30, 2026.
- Attend 50% of Community Grange meetings. (10 pts)
- Serve on a Community, County, or State Youth Committee or help organize a small youth leadership team within your Grange. (5 pts)
- Participate in at least two youth planning or leadership meetings (local, state, or virtual). (5 pts)
- Attend and actively participate in a youth-focused event such as camp, retreat, lock-in, conference, or leadership training (in-person or virtual). (10 pts)
- Assist with or participate in a youth activity at State Session or another
Grange-sponsored event. (5 pts)
For complete details on this contest, please view the 2026 Youth & Young Adult Program Guide.